2021 Kia Picanto gets standard wireless Apple CarPlay

The all-conquering Picanto is getting a tech update, as Kia looks to extend its sales lead over the Mitsubishi Mirage.

The refreshed Kia Picanto hits Australian showrooms later this month, bringing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a revised design for GT-Line and GT models.

Pricing for the updated MY21 line-up starts at $14,690 before on-road costs, though national drive-away pricing will be offered across the range from launch:

• S 5MT: $16,490 drive-away
• S 4AT: $17,490 drive-away
• GT-Line 5MT: $17,990 drive-away
• GT-Line 4AT: $18,990 drive-away
• GT 5MT: $19,990 drive-away

The 2021 drive-away prices represent increases of between $300 and $800 depending on variant. It also marks the end of the crossover-styled X-Line variant, at least for the time being.

GT-Line and GT models pick up the bulk of the exterior changes, with a new grille, revised bumper designs front and rear, two faux exhaust tips out back and revised headlight internals.

The sportier trims also ride on a set of new 16-inch alloys, while the base S gets upgraded ‘MFR’ halogen headlights.

All models get a larger 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which debuts wireless smartphone mirroring for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as multiple Bluetooth connections – two firsts for the micro car segment in Australia.

The upgraded infotainment system is bolstered by a 4.2-inch colour display in the driver’s instrument cluster, a welcome change over the outgoing model’s tiny monochrome LCD with no digital speedo.

Rounding out the changes for MY21 is a new-generation of the company’s ‘Kappa’ 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine in the flagship GT, retaining its 74kW/172Nm outputs.

The S and GT-Line grades carry over the tried and tested 1.25-litre petrol four, which makes 62kW and 122Nm.

While the Picanto line-up maintains its standard inclusion of autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and forward collision warning, the facelifted model lacks the safety upgrades available in other markets, such as lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.